title: Encapsulation performance of layer-by-layer microcapsules for proteins.
abstract: This study reports on the encapsulation efficiency of proteins in dextran sulfate/poly-L-arginine-based microcapsules, fabricated via layer-by-layer assembly (LbL). For this purpose, radiolabeled proteins are entrapped in CaCO(3) microparticles, followed by LbL coating of the CaCO(3) cores and subsequent dissolving of the CaCO(3) using EDTA. To allow to improve protein encapsulation in LbL microcapsules, we studied all steps in the preparation of the microcapsules where loss of protein load might occur. The encapsulation efficiency of proteins in LbL microcapsules turns out to be strongly dependent on both the charge and molecular weight of the protein as well as on the number of polyelectrolyte bilayers the microcapsules consist of.
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Harelbekestraat 72, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
authors.forename: Marie-Luce
authors.initials: ML
authors.lastname: De Temmerman
authors.forename: Jo
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Demeester
authors.forename: Filip
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: De Vos
authors.forename: Stefaan C
authors.initials: SC
authors.lastname: De Smedt
mesh_terms: D002119:Calcium Carbonate / Q000737:chemistry*; D002214:Capsules; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D011506:Proteins / Q000737:chemistry*
chemical_list: D002214:Capsules; D011506:Proteins; D002119:Calcium Carbonate